Antioxidants (2022, 2024) nutrients, and age-related eye disorders

2024

In an aging population, a major reason for vision impairment is oxidative damage to the rods and cones in the photoreceptor cells by blue light and UV radiation. It has been proven that the antioxidant carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin augment ocular health, largely due to their antioxidant properties' protective effects for retinal pigments, and use as light (nonproductive radiation) harvesting pigments. This 2024 study updates these carotenoids' potential and discusses the challenges for their maximum delivery effectiveness.

Kumar P, Banik SP, Ohia SE, Moriyama H, Chakraborty S, et al. (2024). Current Insights on the Photoprotective Mechanism of the Macular Carotenoids, Lutein and Zeaxanthin: Safety, Efficacy and Bio-Delivery. J Am Nutr Assoc. Aug;43(6):505-518.

2022

This 2022 review of studies by Maiuolo et al. investigated the potential properties of natural nutraceuticals and antioxidants in addressing age-related eye disorders. Findings highlighted the promising role of these nutrients in mitigating the progression of eye disorders associated with aging through their antioxidant properties and potential therapeutic benefits. Some of the nutraceuticals and antioxidants highlighted include lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Maiuolo J, Bulotta RM, Oppedisano F, Bosco F, Scarano F, Nucera S, et al. (2022). Potential Properties of Natural Nutraceuticals and Antioxidants in Age-Related Eye Disorders. Life (Basel). Dec 27;13(1):77.

2022

This 2022 review article provides evidence for the use of many antioxidants, particularly carotenoids, in preventing and treating age-related eye diseases. Oxidative stress is one of the common factors leading to these diseases in older adults. Carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin, in high concentrations, have been found to decrease the risk of age-related macular disease; anthocyanins such as found in bilberry and vitamins have been shown to treat and prevent other eye diseases.

Choo PP, Woi PJ, Bastion MC, Omar R, Mustapha M, Md Din N. (2022). Review of Evidence for the Usage of Antioxidants for Eye Aging. Biomed Res Int. Oct 3:5810373.